MUMBAI • Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) legislator Sanjay Gaikwad has landed in controversy after allegedly assaulting a canteen employee at the MLA Guest House in Mumbai. The incident occurred late on Monday night and comes amid heightened political tensions in Maharashtra following recent clashes involving Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) workers.
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According to sources, Gaikwad, who represents the Buldhana constituency, expressed dissatisfaction over the quality of food served in the canteen and allegedly resorted to physical violence following a confrontation with staff.
Allegations of Assault Over Food Quality
Speaking to the media, Gaikwad described his version of the events, claiming the food served was "stale" and unfit for consumption. “Around 9:30 or 10 PM, I went to the canteen and took varan bhaat for dinner. The moment I took the first bite, it tasted sour. On the second bite, I actually vomited. It smelled stale—I asked them if they were serving poison,” Gaikwad said.
The MLA further alleged that this was not an isolated incident. “This has happened multiple times. I have warned the canteen staff before. Many of us from rural constituencies stay here and deserve better,” he added.
Unapologetic Stand
When questioned about the alleged assault, Gaikwad remained defiant. “I have done nothing wrong. The food was in the worst possible condition. I will hit him again if such food is served. I have no regrets,” he said.
The altercation reportedly took place at the state-run MLA Guest House, which houses several legislators attending the ongoing Monsoon Session of the Maharashtra Assembly. Eyewitness accounts suggest the confrontation escalated quickly, leading to physical assault. No official police complaint has been reported so far, and the Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) is yet to issue a formal statement on the matter.
Backdrop of Broader Political Tensions
The incident comes close on the heels of a politically charged episode involving MNS workers, who were recently caught on video assaulting a shopkeeper in Mira Road for allegedly refusing to speak Marathi. The video sparked widespread outrage, with opposition leaders accusing the MNS of vigilantism and stoking regional tensions.
In the wake of the backlash, MNS chief Raj Thackeray was heard in a video instructing his party cadre: “Beat them, but don’t record videos.”
The Shiv Sena incident, though unrelated in cause, adds fuel to an already volatile political environment in Maharashtra, where language, identity, and governance are dominating the political narrative.
Calls for Accountability
Opposition leaders and civil society groups have condemned the rising trend of aggressive conduct among public representatives and party workers. Several voices across the political spectrum have called for an impartial inquiry into the MLA Guest House incident and urged all parties to uphold the dignity of public office.
With the Assembly session underway and public scrutiny intensifying, pressure is mounting on both the Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) and the ruling Mahayuti alliance to take disciplinary action and reaffirm their commitment to lawful and accountable governance.
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